AC Milan president Silvio Berlusconi claims Manchester City are leading the race to sign Pep Guardiola as their next manager.

Current City boss Roberto Mancini insists his job is secure amid rumours that the arrival of former Barcelona duo Txiki Begiristain and Ferra Sorriano at Eastlands could see Guardiola on his way to the Etihad Stadium.

Guardiola, who is currently taking a break from football in New York with his family after leaving Barcelona at the end of last season, appears to be the long-term target for Chelsea, who appointed Rafael Benitez as interim boss last week.

But Berlusconi, who has angered Milan manager Massimo Allegri with his comments, believes City are in pole position to land the Spaniard when he decides to end his sabbatical.

He said: "Who would not want someone like Guardiola? There are some English clubs after Guardiola, especially [Manchester] City who have directors that we know very well. We will try to sign him, but it's going to be difficult."